The designer brooch is back in style for 2025, and this is where in the world to find one.
For the sophisticated female traveler with an eye for timeless elegance, luxury brooches are making a triumphant return in 2025.
Once a staple of aristocratic wardrobes and Hollywood icons, these exquisite accessories are now gracing runways, red carpets, and the most discerning jewelry boxes.
For the luxury female traveler, brooches represent more than just a fashion statement—they are a blend of history, craftsmanship, and personal expression.
A timeless Cartier design or a non branded hidden gem in an antique market, carries a story waiting to be told. As 2025’s must-have accessory, brooches prove that true style is always timeless.
Whether found in high-end boutiques in Europe, antique markets in South East Asia or Europe, or passed down as heirlooms, brooches are the ultimate statement piece for a touch of opulence.
A Storied Past: The Enduring Allure of Brooches
Brooches have a fascinating history, dating back to the Bronze Age when they served a practical purpose—securing cloaks and garments. Over time, they evolved into status symbols, worn by royalty and nobility as intricate expressions of wealth and power.
From the ornate designs of the Byzantine era to Queen Victoria’s sentimental sapphire brooch and Queen Elizabeth II’s vast collection of 98 treasured pieces, brooches have long been synonymous with luxury.
Madeleine Albright, the first female U.S. Secretary of State, even used brooches as a form of diplomatic expression, proving their power extends far beyond mere adornment. Today, they have returned as a key trend, seamlessly blending vintage charm with contemporary styling.
The Modern Brooch Renaissance
Luxury designers are embracing the brooch once more, with major fashion houses incorporating these elegant pins into their latest collections. Chanel, Dior, Van Cleef & Arpels, and Cartier are leading the charge, offering brooches that range from delicate floral motifs to bold, sculptural masterpieces.
At fashion week, brands like Carolina Herrera and Tory Burch showcased brooches as centerpiece accessories, pinned to dresses, lapels, and even hats.
Celebrities are also playing a pivotal role in this revival. From Carrie in Sex In The City, on screen to actor Katie Holmes layering multiple brooches over a structured blazer or Sharon Stone adorning her jacket, to Keke Palmer adorning a sleek Balmain gown with a dazzling bee-shaped pin, the brooch has become a go-to accessory for effortless sophistication.
Where to Find the Most Exquisite Brooches
For the luxury traveler, brooch-hunting can be an adventure in itself. From exclusive jewelers to hidden gem antique stores, here are some of the best places to seek out these treasures:
1. High-End Jewelry Houses
- Cartier (Paris, London, New York) – Known for their iconic panther and floral brooches, Cartier remains a top choice for those seeking timeless elegance.
- Van Cleef & Arpels (Paris, Dubai, Hong Kong) – Specialising in intricate, nature-inspired designs, this French maison crafts exquisite brooches that exude sophistication.
- Bulgari (Rome, Milan, Tokyo) – Famous for bold, colorful creations, Bulgari brooches are a favorite among collectors who love statement pieces.
2. Antique Markets & Vintage Boutiques
- Portobello Road Market (London, UK) – One of the world’s most famous antique markets, offering an impressive selection of vintage brooches from different eras.
- Marche aux Puces de Saint-Ouen (Paris, France) – A haven for luxury vintage hunters, this sprawling flea market features exquisite brooches from Art Deco to Victorian styles.
- Brimfield Antique Show (Massachusetts, USA) – The largest antique show in the U.S., perfect for finding unique and rare brooches from private collectors.
3. Luxury Department Stores & Boutiques
- Bergdorf Goodman (New York, USA) – A destination for high-end designer brooches curated from the world’s leading jewelry brands.
- Harrods (London, UK) – Featuring an exclusive selection of brooches from designers like Chanel, Dior, and Tiffany & Co.
- Ginza Mitsukoshi (Tokyo, Japan) – A premier shopping destination known for its blend of traditional Japanese craftsmanship and Western luxury brands.
- Temple Street (Hong Kong) – the best destination in Hong Kong for vintage trinkets.
Styling Tips: How to Wear Brooches in 2025
The beauty of brooches lies in their versatility. Here are a few sophisticated ways to incorporate them into your wardrobe:
- On a Blazer or Coat Lapel – The classic way to wear a brooch, adding a touch of refinement to structured tailoring.
- As a Dress Accent – Pin a brooch to the waistline or shoulder of a dress for an unexpected twist.
- On Accessories – Brooches aren’t just for clothing; adorn handbags, scarves, or even hats for a fresh, contemporary take.
- Layered for a Statement Look – Mix and match different styles and sizes for a modern, eclectic aesthetic.
